5 Places to Find Korea in Manila

There's a strong love for Korean culture in the country. From fashion to beauty, food to entertainment, we can't deny the valuable contributions of our dear Asian neighbors.

You might be, or at one point was, obsessed with everything Korean, and we can't blame you. Seoul is an unforgettable destination, K-pop is beyond infectious, Kimchi can be really addictive, and Korean beauty products are miracle workers, no doubt.

Are you missing Korea or dreaming of that first visit? Check out our list below, and get a taste of K-culture right here at home.

If you love Korean food, then you've probably tried many of the well-known Korean restaurants that dot the Metro. For something new, we suggest Soban K-Town Grill at Eastwood Mall in Quezon City. The joint offers both Korean classics and modern creations. You may choose to grill your own meats, which is a must-try Korean dining experience, or you may also check out their fusion dishes that mix Korean flavors with American and Mexican elements.

Mall of Korea recently opened on the 2nd floor of Metrowalk Complex in Pasig City, and it's a Korean fashion haven. You can score affordable statement clothing and accessories to effortlessly cop your favorite Korean looks. Pro tip: Be sure to slip into comfortable footwear, so you can easily breeze through racks and racks of stylish pieces in this spacious establishment.

Mark your calendars. It's Korea Week from October 11 to 16, and many activities in and outside Manila are lined up to celebrate Korea's rich culture. One of them is the 2016 Korean Film Festival happening from October 13 to 16 at SM Megamall. Check out their lineup of emotionally charged films, and be sure to bring your fellow Korean drama-obsessed friends along. The best part: All screenings are free.

K-beauty has become a world standard. Who wouldn't be impressed with and envious of their dewy skin and age-defying beauty? Thankfully, earlier this year, Althea Korea, a top online destination for K-beauty products, launched their Philippine shopping website. There, you can shop brands not yet available in the country. They have a ton of discounts on must-haveproducts, so we suggest you take advantage of those, stat!

We can't wrap up this list without giving you a K-pop update. Korean boyband BTOB is coming to Manila and having its first fan meeting on October 29 at the Solaire Theater in Paranaque City. The event will be two hours of songs, chats, and games. We heard lots of freebies are up for grabs, too! Tickets start at P3,000, so we hope you've saved up enough funds to see your K-pop idols.

Jean is a twentysomething freelance writer who enjoys squatting at coffee shops with her trusty laptop, favorite music, and book of choice. She's big on city living but always longs for the sea, sun, and sand.